PETALING JAYA: Sukma (Malaysia Games) that was supposed to take place from July 11-19 in Johor have been postponed indefinitely because of the worsening Covid-19 pandemic.
Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican announced the decision yesterday after a video conference meeting with the stakeholders of the biennial meet.
It will now take place either by December of this year or be moved to 2021. It is the first time the Games have been rescheduled since its inception in 1986.
“The new date will depend on three factors – the Covid-19 containment situation, the dates of major public exams and major sporting events.
“We will also take into consideration the needs of all stakeholders, especially host state Johor.
“We will try to fix the new dates at the latest by May. We have also decided that Para Sukma, which were to take place after Sukma, will be postponed as well, ” he said.
The Tokyo Olympics were supposed to take place from July 24-Aug 9 while Tokyo Paralympics were to follow from Aug 25-Sept 6.
“The most important thing is to ensure the health and safety of all athletes, officials and all involved parties.
“The Youth and Sports Ministry and the Olympic Council of Malaysia will work closely together to study the implications to our athletes now that the Games have been rescheduled.”
Source : The Star